Although it sounds (and looks) like you might have solved your concrete placement issue. For the future I might make some suggetions. Having been in the concrete supply business for over 30 years, I have actually retained some knowledge… (my Wife might argue that).
What you might consider is the addition of a “Water Reducing Admixture” to the mix. This is normally in liquid form, and just a very small amount added to your mix will ‘wet’ your concrete an amazing amount. It is not really wet, but the surfce tension of the water has been broken down, and the mixture will ‘flow’ like crazy. You might even find that it will pour through a reasonably small tubing in order to get it where you want it. Reasonable means probably no smaller than 1.5 inches, maybe larger.
Stop by your local Ready Mixed Concrete plant, and sweet talk the batchman or plant manager for a sample quantity of water reducer. Two to Three ounces in a full 1 sack mixer of concrete will be sufficient. If you are mixing small amounts in a bucket or wheelbarrow, measure by the tablespoon… this stuff is pretty drastic.
Not only will it help in placement, you will find that the finished concrete will be nearly perfect, and most if not all, of the bubbles normally trapped in your forms will be gone. Even though the concrete looks ‘wetter’, it is really not wetter, just more fluid. The setting time is almost normal, and the best part is the strength will be improved. Ask the guys for a normal set water reducer, and if they can be talked out of a gallon (bring a jug), you will be set for a LONG time. The stuff is safe, non staining, and easy to use. (for what it is worth, they make a retarded set version too, which gives you an extended set time… gives you an hour or so longer before initial set.) Good Luck.